Japan’s Director-General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation, Yasuji Komiyama has laid out an ambitious vision for the Pacific, promising that Japan is ready to be a strong partner in the region’s economic development.
Japan sees the Pacific as a critical partner for sustainable development and economic growth.
Komiyama highlighted the Pacific’s “rich natural resources, diverse cultures, and tremendous economic potential” as drivers for Japan’s strengthened focus on the region.
“It is a great honour to deepen our relationship and build our future.
“The Pacific Islands are crucial partners for Japan,” he said at the Forum Island Countries and Japan Regional Investment Seminar this week in Suva.
Japan’s investment strategy in the Pacific now includes a sizable commitment—a US$1 billion fund earmarked for projects across the Global South, with the Pacific as a priority.
“We are building flagship projects in the Pacific that address critical social and economic issues, creating a foundation for long-term partnership,” Komiyama said.
He announced that companies like Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Soramitsu are already leading high-tech projects in Palau and Papua New Guinea.
Kawasaki is working to introduce advanced technology to stabiliSe Palau’s electric grid, while Soramitsu has initiated a digital currency pilot in Palau and Papua New Guinea. “These projects go beyond infrastructure—they’re pioneering solutions for challenges unique to the region,” he said.
Since last year, Japan has taken significant steps to bring cutting-edge Japanese start-ups to the Pacific, recognising that technology can be a potent force for solving social issues.
“We believe these technologies, developed to solve social issues in Japan, can offer solutions in the Pacific as well. This seminar is an opportunity to showcase what Japanese innovation can offer.”
Komiyama also outlined Japan’s recent engagements with the region, including a business event in Tokyo, a business mission in early 2024, and the PALM 10 Economic Forum, which took place in July. These events aimed to create business opportunities and collaboration between Japanese and Pacific companies.
The Director-General expressed high hopes for the 12 Japanese companies present at the seminar, each with experience and an interest in the Pacific market.
Japanese trading houses and construction firms have already established a presence in the Pacific, particularly in large-scale infrastructure, contributing to airports, energy systems, and other essential projects.
“These companies know the region, but they’re also here to build new networks and develop projects that can change lives,” Komiyama explained. “By working one-on-one, we can strengthen our economic ties and build trust, ultimately creating the foundation for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”
In addition to major corporations, Komiyama pointed out Japan’s drive to encourage smaller, innovative start-ups to establish a foothold in the Pacific.
Japan has supported start-ups with solutions ranging from renewable energy to digital technologies that address local challenges.
“This is more than just business,” Komiyama noted. “This is about creating value that aligns with the Pacific’s development goals.”
As Japan’s vision for the region gains momentum, Komiyama highlighted the importance of shared prosperity and mutual growth.
“We are committed to the success and development of the Pacific Island countries and region. The potential is immense, and together, we can unlock it.”
The US$1 billion pledge, he emphasised, signals Japan’s commitment to deeper cooperation with the Pacific.
“By strengthening our partnerships, we are building a future that benefits both Japan and the Pacific. I wish you all great success and the continued growth of the Pacific Island countries,” he said.
